News Release

Friday, June 5, 2009

Gang Member Arrested for Murder NR09269jl

Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Detectives arrested a gang member who’s responsible for killing a man in San Pedro.

On Friday, June 5, 2009, just after midnight, 21-year-old Daniel Castro was walking with his brother in the 200 block of West 2nd Street when they were called by the suspect who was standing in the park within the San Pedro Housing Development. The brothers engaged in a conversation with the suspect for a short time. The suspect walked away and returned with a handgun and fired several rounds at the brothers. Castro was struck by the gunfire as the suspect ran away from the scene.

Castro was taken to a local hospital where died from gunshot wounds.

Detectives identified the suspect and he was located within an apartment located in the 1000 block of West 8th Street. The suspect was arrested and booked for murder, and has been identified as 22-year-old Edward Benavidez.

The motive for the shooting was gang related.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Harbor Homicide Detectives at 310-726-7881. After hours or on weekends, calls may be directed to a 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (527-3247). Callers may also text “Crimes” with a cell phone or log on to www.lapdonline.org and click on web tips. When using a cell phone, all messages should begin with “LAPD.” Tipsters may remain anonymous.